Buying a new HVAC system is a big investment, but keeping it running smoothly is all about maintenance. When I installed my Goodman 2 Ton R-32 Wall-Mounted Air Handler with 5 kW Heater, my contractor told me:
👉 “If you take care of it, this system can easily last 15 years or more.”
That stuck with me. So, I built a seasonal checklist to make sure my Goodman unit gets the attention it deserves. In this guide, I’ll share exactly what I do—and what I’ve learned along the way—so you can keep your own system humming year-round.
🧹 Why Maintenance Matters
Your air handler is the indoor heart of your HVAC system. It controls airflow, houses the evaporator coil, and in my case, provides backup electric heat.
Here’s why regular maintenance is so important:
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✅ Efficiency: A dirty filter or clogged coil can increase energy use by 15% or more
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✅ Longevity: Systems with annual tune-ups last years longer than neglected ones
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✅ Comfort: Clean filters and coils = better airflow and consistent temps.
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✅ Fewer Repairs: Many costly breakdowns start with small, preventable issues like clogged drains.
Think of it like changing the oil in your car—it’s cheaper to maintain than to replace.
📅 Monthly Tasks
🪣 1. Check & Replace Filters
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Goodman recommends replacing or cleaning filters every 30–60 days.
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I check mine monthly—if it looks dirty, I swap it out.
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A clean filter prevents dust buildup on the coil and keeps airflow strong.
DIY Tip: Upgrade to a MERV 8–11 pleated filter for better air quality, but don’t go too high (MERV 13+) unless your system is designed for it, or it may restrict airflow.
📅 Quarterly Tasks
💧 2. Flush the Condensate Drain
Your air handler removes humidity from the air, which drains through a pipe. If it clogs, you could end up with leaks or water damage.
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I pour a cup of vinegar down the drain line every 3 months to prevent algae.
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For extra protection, I use condensate tablets in the drain pan.
👉 ASHRA notes that proper condensate management is key to preventing mold and IAQ (indoor air quality) issues.
🧽 3. Wipe Down the Cabinet & Check Coils
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Dust can build up on the air handler’s exterior and coil access panel.
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I use a damp cloth to wipe it down quarterly.
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For visible coil dust, I use a soft brush and coil cleaner spray.
🍂 Seasonal Care: Spring & Fall
These are my “big” maintenance times—right before heavy summer cooling and winter heating seasons.
⚙️ 4. Inspect the Blower Motor & Fan
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I listen for strange noises (grinding, squealing).
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I check fan speed and airflow at the vents.
👉 The DOE states that blower issues are among the top causes of poor cooling performance.
🔌 5. Inspect Electrical Connections
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I don’t touch the wiring myself, but I do a visual check.
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Once a year, I have a pro tighten electrical connections and check amperage draw.
❄️ 6. Check Refrigerant Line Insulation
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The suction line (big copper tube) should have intact foam insulation.
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If it’s worn or cracked, I replace it with pipe insulation from the hardware store.
❄️ Winter Prep
Since my Goodman unit has a 5 kW electric heater, I make sure it’s ready before temps drop.
🔥 7. Test the Heater Strip
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I switch to “heat” mode and confirm warm air comes through vents.
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Any burning smell that lasts more than 15 minutes = call a pro.
🏠 8. Seal Duct Leaks
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Before winter, I check accessible ducts for leaks.
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I use mastic sealant (not duct tape—it dries out).
☀️ Summer Prep
Before peak cooling season, I give the air handler some extra TLC.
🧼 9. Clean the Evaporator Coil
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A dirty coil can reduce efficiency by up to 30%
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I spray on a foaming coil cleaner and gently rinse.
🌡️ 10. Check TXV Operation
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The built-in thermal expansion valve (TXV) regulates refrigerant flow.
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If cooling feels uneven, or humidity control seems off, it may need adjustment (pro task).
🧑🔧 When to Call a Pro
While homeowners can handle most of the basics, some tasks require professional tools and expertise:
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Annual refrigerant check & recharge
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Deep coil cleaning (when dirt is heavy)
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Blower motor lubrication or replacement
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Electrical safety testing
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Full system performance evaluation
👉 The Air Conditioning Contractors of America recommends a professional tune-up once per year to maximize system lifespan.
👩🏫 Samantha’s Tips for Staying on Track
Here’s how I keep maintenance from slipping through the cracks:
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📓 Keep a logbook – I jot down filter changes and drain flushes.
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📱 Use smart thermostat reminders – My Ecobee sends me filter alerts.
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👂 Listen to your system – Unusual sounds are often early warning signs.
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💧 Don’t ignore leaks – Even small drips from the drain pan need attention.
🧾 Verified Resources
✅ Final Takeaway
A Goodman 2 Ton Wall-Mounted Air Handler with 5 kW Heater is efficient, compact, and future-proof—but like any HVAC system, it needs consistent care.
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🧹 Monthly: Check filters.
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💧 Quarterly: Flush drains, wipe coils.
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🍂 Seasonal: Test fans, ducts, and heater.
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❄️☀️ Winter & Summer: Prep for peak demand.
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🧑🔧 Annually: Call in a pro for refrigerant and electrical checks.
👉 My advice: Set reminders, keep it simple, and don’t wait for problems to snowball. With this checklist, your Goodman unit can keep you comfortable for well over a decade.
In the next topic we will know more about: Do Goodman R-32 Compatible Air Handlers Qualify for Rebates or Tax Credits in 2025?
